Oku Nikko Nature Course

Spreading across a plateau at around 1,200 meters elevation, Oku Nikko is a treasury of wild nature representing Nikko National Park. Cobalt blue Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls (one of Japan three great waterfalls), and the vast Senjogahara marsh await beyond the winding Irohazaka slope. This course lets you tour the cool, scenic highlands over a full day.

Course Route

9:00 Start at the shore of Lake Chuzenji Take a bus from Nikko Station up the Irohazaka slope to the lakeshore. The lake sits at 1,269 meters and stretches about 25 kilometers around. Begin by gazing at the clear water and taking a deep breath.

9:40 View Kegon Falls Head to Kegon Falls, just near the lake. Water from Lake Chuzenji plunges about 97 meters in one drop, a truly powerful sight. An elevator takes you down to a viewing platform near the basin.

11:00 Hike Senjogahara Walk the vast marsh of Senjogahara at the foot of Mount Nantai. Well maintained boardwalks let you stroll pleasantly while watching seasonal flowers and wild birds.

12:30 Lunch in the highlands Rest at an eatery by the lake or near Ryuzu Falls. Enjoy highland flavors such as rainbow trout dishes.

14:00 Ryuzu Falls and Yu Falls Enjoy a tour of scattered waterfalls, including Ryuzu Falls where the stream splits over rocks, and Yu Falls dropping from Lake Yunoko.

16:00 Return to the lakeshore Take a bus back to the lakeshore and descend the Irohazaka slope toward Nikko Station.

Highlights

The greatest highlight is Kegon Falls, counted among Japan three great waterfalls. It changes its expression by season and time of day, and is exceptional in both fresh green and autumn foliage. Senjogahara is an open, unobstructed marsh where clear days reveal a grand view with Mount Nantai in the background. In autumn the whole area turns golden.

Access and Tips

Lake Chuzenji is about 40 minutes by bus from Nikko Station. The Irohazaka slope along the way is famous for 48 consecutive curves, with separate roads for ascent and descent. Oku Nikko sits high and stays cooler than the city, so bringing a light layer is wise even in summer. The spots are linked by bus, so a free pass is convenient.

A Quick Tip

Irohazaka becomes heavily congested in foliage season, so public transport is recommended. The marsh boardwalks feel especially refreshing in the clear morning air, so aim to start early.